The NATIONAL GARDEN of Athens lies right in the centre of the city, just next to Syntagma square, and is an amazing oasis you can reach very easily from anywhere in the city as it has various entry points. Together with Zappeion Hall Garden, it covers 24 hectares full of vegetation, rare kind of plants, palm trees and birds, and you can also grab a nice cup of coffee in Zappeion Cafe.
In the mood for a little hike in the middle of the city? Walking up FILOPPAPOU HILL makes you almost forget that you are actually still in Athens - take the path up from Dionysiou Areopagitou street and after a nice and steep hike of about 25 minutes, you will be rewarded with the most stunning view over Athens, right across the majestic Acropolis. Don't forget to return before sunset though, as there is no artificial lighting anywhere up the hill.
For a relaxed stroll by the sea, look no further and take the tram to FLISVOS MARINA - grab an ice-cream next to the Yacht harbour and continue to Flisvos Park, where Athenian families love to hang out on weekends, enjoying the park, the sea, the cafes and even an open air cinema.
A real hidden gem in Athens, the DIOMEDES BOTANICAL GARDEN is an absolute stunning place to soak in pure nature. A little further outside, but easily reachable by busses 811/866 from Egaleo Metro Station, this huge 186 hectares park is a haven for leisure-seekers, families and joggers and you can really spend hours admiring the variety of flowers, trees and even wild turtles that are roaming around. Next to the main entrance is a very charming cafe too, which is fully covered in shade and serves food & drinks.
And our favourite one comes last:
Not only is the STAVROS NIARCHOS FOUNDATION CULTURAL CENTRE itself an architectural treasure, it is also the host of uncountable free cultural events and educational classes, many of which take place in its beautiful and rich park. Get lost in its little allées made of tall pine trees, olive trees, purple lavender bushes and a mix of hundreds of different herbs that form part of the Greek vegetation, and get mesmerized by the sweet smells and the beauty of the scenery, especially if you stay until the evening hours, when the park and its colourful lights become truly magical.